What’s it Like at the Chelsea Winter Village and Illuminations?

Is there anything quite like London at Christmas? From the glowing shop windows on Regent Street to the cosy markets popping up on every corner, the city truly comes alive.

Well, this year there’s something new, enchanting and illuminated to get excited about – and we went to check it out!

This year, we were lucky enough to visit the Chelsea Winter Village. Nestled in one of London’s most beautiful neighbourhoods, this debut event is the perfect mix of historic charm and modern “wow” factor.

If you’re looking for a festive evening stroll that feels both grand and intimate, this is definitely the place to be.

Want to see the magic for yourself? Grab a hot chocolate and take a virtual walk with us in our cover of this great event below!

What is the Chelsea Winter Village?

So, what exactly is the Chelsea Winter Village? Think of it as a festive “two-for-one.” An enchanting combination of a lively, free-to-enter Christmas market and a ticketed “Illuminations” trail that is honestly breathtaking.

Even though it’s the new kid on the Christmas block, it’s been a massive hit, with over 85,000 people having already walked the trail!

Whether you’re there to grab a bite with friends or take the kids on an enchanted walk, it’s designed to be a full evening of festive fun. You’ve got the ‘Village’ area for chilling with friends and the Illuminations for that immersive, “lost in the lights” feeling.

When can you visit?

The 2025 version of the Chelsea Winter Village ran from late November to the end of December and it looks like it’s going to be occupying a similar time slot in the future!

• The 2026 season will run from 25th November to 28th December.

The Illuminations and Village usually open their gates from 4:30pm. The light trail closes around 10:00 pm, while the Village and the Curling Club often keep the party going until 11:00 pm.

The Winter Village area (home to the delicious food and curling) is actually free to enter! However, if you want to experience the 1.5km Illuminations trail, you’ll need to book a ticket. They even offer special neuro-inclusive evenings on select dates, which is a lovely, thoughtful touch.

Where is the Chelsea Winter Village?

If you’re wondering where to find all this festive sparkle, you’ll head over to the stunning, 66-acre grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in West London. But this isn’t just any park; it’s a stunning piece of heritage right by the River Thames.

It’s a great location because you’re just a short stroll from the trendy shops of the King’s Road and right across the bridge from the iconic Battersea Power Station.

The Heart of the Village: The Chelsea Pensioners

What really gives this event its heart is its home. The Royal Hospital Chelsea is the world-famous residence of the Chelsea Pensioners. The iconic British Army veterans are adorned in their scarlet coats and tricorn hats.

The Hospital was actually founded by King Charles II back in 1682 and designed by Sir Christopher Wren (the genius behind St Paul’s Cathedral). For over 300 years, it has been a place of rest and community for veterans. Today, around 300 pensioners live here, and you might even spot them around the grounds! To them, it is a place of belonging, since they mostly don’t have any family, which is why this famous refuge takes on such an important role.

What to do at the Chelsea Winter Village and Illuminations

This might be the event’s debut year, but there’s so much to get stuck into! Here are our personal highlights:

• The 1.5km Light Trail: Enter through an “enchanted archway” into a world of giant glowing deer and light tunnel that is a total dream for photos.
• Festive Feasting: Head over to the Market Square for some classic German sausages. Our favorite part? The open fire pits where you can toast marshmallows. The perfect wholsesome festive family activity!
• The Curling Club: Going as a group? You have to try this! It’s basically “Apres-Ski” meets Chelsea – ideal for stoking the fires of friendly competition.

More Festive Magic to Explore

If you’ve still got some festive energy left – and you’ve been following our Travel Channel – you’ll know that’s not all London has to offer at the most magical time of the year!

• Ice Skating at Somerset House: For that classic London feel, you can’t beat ice skating in the gorgeous courtyard at Somerset House. With food, skate schools, exhibitions and superstar DJs all all available in the glow of the humongous Christmas Tree – it’s a real winner! And perfect for date night.
• Christmas at Kenwood: Want to pack more light trails and festive projections into your Christmassy London experience? Then head up to Hampstead Heath and drink in the wonder of Christmas at Kenwood, with areas like the Astral Avenue, Fairy Path, Laser Garden and mesmerising Rainbow Walk.
• Open-Top Bus Light Tours: A brilliant way to see the lights of Oxford Street and Regent Street in all their glory, without the legwork!
• Nomadic Dinners: If you’re a foodie looking for something truly unique, you have to check out Nomadic. Located in a hidden woodland clearing just a short hop from London, they host immersive, “off-grid” feasts that are pure magic.

Discover More Top Events Happening Across Europe on Our Travel Channel

We think the Chelsea Winter Village is such a fantastic addition to London’s Christmas lineup. It manages to feel grand and spectacular while still paying homage to the wonderful history of the venue and the Chelsea Pensioners.

Whether you’re there for the “gram-worthy” light tunnel or just a warm drink by the fire, it’s a beautiful reminder of the magic of the season.

Ready for your next adventure? We’re always on the hunt for the best festivals and hidden gems across Europe.

If you enjoyed this guide, come and explore more with us on our TA-DAH.TV Travel Channel. We can’t wait to see you there!